Today, The Astronauts Memorial Foundation remembers the seven brave astronauts of Space Shuttle Columbia who were lost during reentry.
Commander Rick Husband, Pilot William McCool, Mission Specialists Michael Anderson, Ilan Ramon, Kalpana Chawla, David Brown, and Laurel Clark
On February 1, 2003, the crew of Space Shuttle Columbia, STS-107 gave their lives in pursuit of discovery and the advancement of human spaceflight. These extraordinary individuals embodied the spirit of exploration, dedicating themselves to science and the betterment of humanity. Their legacy lives on in every mission that reaches for the stars, in every dream ignited by their courage, and in the continued pursuit of knowledge beyond our world. We honor their memory today and every day, as their legacy lives on in the hearts of those who dare to dream beyond the stars.
The Astronauts Memorial Foundation plays a crucial role in preserving their legacy, ensuring their contributions to space exploration and education will never be forgotten.
Ad Astra Per Aspera – "To the Stars Through Hardship."
“Today and forever, the Space Mirror will send their names into the heavens as a reminder that these were pioneers who helped lead America into space.”
Dan Quayle - Vice President of The United States. Astronauts Memorial Dedication ceremony, May 9th, 1991
Our Mission
The Astronauts Memorial Foundation honors and memorializes those astronauts who have sacrificed their lives for the advancement of human spaceflight and inspires future generations of space explorers.
The Astronauts Memorial Foundation (AMF) was created after the Space Shuttle Challenger accident in 1986. AMF pays tribute to US astronauts, including those who were part of US crews and crew members of commercial flights approved by the FAA, who lost their lives.
In 1994 The Center for Space Education (CSE), was established to serve as a “living memorial” for these astronauts. The CSE offers programs for students and educators worldwide and partners with NASA to provide free access to the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex for participants.
Currently, there are 25 astronauts are honored at the Space Mirror Memorial at Kennedy Space Center, FL.
The Space Mirror
Our nation’s national memorial honoring the astronauts who have sacrificed their lives for the advancement of human spaceflight and inspires future generations of space explorers
Educational Programs
that take place at
the Center for Space Education
Events
Our dedicated team is here to help you create an extraordinary experience that will have your guests talking about your event for years to come.
Located just 45 minutes from Orlando, Melbourne, and Daytona at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Center. Your guests will be immersed in an extraordinary environment the moment they take their first step from their transport. Surrounded by the history of space as they make their way to The Center for Space Education as they walk through the rocket garden.